Some of the large fires in 1925 were Iten Biscuit Company, $140,000, Goden Rule Refinery where one fireman, Charles A. Messer was killed, and the Broomcorn Growers Coop., with a $300,000 loss and five firemen injured. In response to those fires, the City Commissioners fired their first gun in ridding the city of fire hazards. They declared five buildings as fire traps and ordered them razed. Then thirty more buildings were inspected by Chief Brownewell and a building inspector, these were also condemned. There was talk of a new No. 8 sub (fire) station to be located near the wholesale warehouse district, complete with engine and service truck. Considerable discussion was held, however, no action was taken. The fires had slacked off and interest was temporarily lost, but it wouldn't be for long.

In December, 1925, the old steamer made another appearance. This time at the Imperial Mills fire with a $70,000 loss, and thirteen firemen overcome by chlorine gas. After the first of the year in 1926, several more large loss fires occurred, the Kozy Closure Building, $105,000, Knorr Merchant Mercantile Company, $325,000, and the Wichita Nurses Home, and once again the cycle of interest. The commissioners condemned the buildings and the Fire Department, using the old "Bull Wagon," pulled down the walls to rid the city of the "fire traps."

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